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Prologue

Posted on 2009-06-04

A bruise was forming on Elizabeth Bennet's arm. She has pinched herself every moment for the last hour willing herself to wake up from the worst possible nightmare. She, the independent and free spirited Elizabeth Bennet, was being forced, well no she agreed but only for the monetary benefit it would bring her family, to marry Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Any sane, coherent, well-bred young lady of society could only dream of the prospect of marrying Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley in Derbyshire. However, to Elizabeth at this moment she would rather be marrying William Collins.

However, as this story progresses a few things must be understood. At this point in time Elizabeth decided it was not worth reading Mr. Darcy's letter in Kent. After all, he betrayed his childhood friend, kept her favorite sister from finding happiness with her true love, and was actually surprised that she should not wish to marry him after the abominable proposal she received from him. Who would waste any more time with him?

Another thing that must be understood is that upon her arrival at the parsonage she received an urgent express with the terrible news of her father's untimely death. At Longbourn, Mr. Collins is hardly giving the family time to vacate from his new home and her Uncle Gardiner will not hear of any of the girls becoming governesses. To Mr. Darcy's credit he has already confessed to his friend Mr. Bingley and now the latter and Jane are happily situated after a speedy marriage by special license.

The rest of the Bennets, Mrs. Bennet, Lizzy, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia, have all now relocated their home to Gracechurch street, in London. However, the Gardiner's infinite kindness has taken its toll on Elizabeth's conscience. Her aunt and uncle have said countless times how they are not a burden and are always welcome in their home.

Then, as fate would have it, Elizabeth would very soon no longer be a resident in her Uncle's house. After a respectable period of time for mourning had passed, Mr. Darcy prevailed upon the Gardiner home with a second proposal of marriage. Like many stories before this one he knew that Elizabeth did not love him. However, he believed that he loved her enough for the both of them. He had a marriage contract drawn up with an estate for the rest of the Bennet family, a very generous settlement for Elizabeth, and an agreement of full consummation of the marriage within two years, and the providing of an heir.

And so Elizabeth reluctantly agreed that this was a good choice for her. Mr. Gardiner admired Mr. Darcy greatly and Jane offered very similar counsel in Mr. Darcy's favor. Although saddened by her sister's lack of choice of love in the matter Jane was ever optimistic that Lizzy would grow to love and admire her future spouse.

Chapter One

Posted on 2009-06-04

Even though Lizzy was the one getting married, it seemed like it was Mrs. Bennet. Lizzy was more than happy to relinquish all control to her mother concerning the wedding. She spent her time enjoying her last free days as she thought of them. She was not afraid of Mr. Darcy because he seemed very polite and gentleman-like ever since the engagement had occurred. However, all the loathing and evil thoughts she had for him were still in the foremost part of her mind.

Her dress was fit to her perfectly. She conceded to Jane that she did feel quite pretty in it. However, at any other time she still wore black, as it had not been but three months since her father's death. Mr. Darcy insisted that as she was soon to become his wife, he should foot the bill for all things from their engagement on. This included new gowns. Mr. Darcy had asked his sister, Georgiana, to send some finer fabrics to the Gardiner's residence before Lizzy had a chance to shop. He made sure to state his preference for nearly any color other than black. She sent some very lovely shades of lavender, pinks, browns, and greens. All, which she thought, would bring out Lizzy's eyes, which had been very aptly described to Georgiana in a letter from her brother stating his partiality for her "fine eyes."

Lizzy had grudgingly agreed to stand for a dress fitting at Mr. Darcy's expense. She was showed some designs that she was actually pleased with. She, however, was most displeased that the materials for said dresses had already been ordered and paid for without her consent or knowledge of the fact. This would be the first of many things on which she and her fiancιe would come to disagree on. She would take the matter up with him at the Bingley townhouse that evening where they were both dining. The Bingleys had removed from Netherfield to London for the wedding preparations and ceremony. Lizzy was a frequent visitor there, taking any chance to be away from her mother's incessant chatter.

As was commonplace, all interaction between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet had a distinct aura of awkwardness. She approached him with caution, as she was still unsure of his temper.

"Mr. Darcy," said Lizzy, "I have something I would discuss with you."

"I am at your disposal, Miss Bennet. Shall we move into library?" was Mr. Darcy's reply.

Elizabeth walked down the hall to the library behind Mr. Darcy. She made it a point to ignore his arm as he offered it to her.

"What can I do for you Miss. Bennet? I trust everything concerning the wedding is all in order?"

"Yes," said Lizzy "everything is in order on that account. However, as for my wardrobe after the wedding not everything seems to be accounted for in that area."

"I see." Said Mr. Darcy as he waited for further explanation from Elizabeth.

"You see, sir, it has not been but a few months since my father's death. Although my mother has gone back to wearing colors, I would prefer to remain in black, to respect the memory of my father. Although the fabrics your sister chose were quite lovely, I am sorry to say that I shall not be able to wear the dresses for quite some time. I hope you understand."

"I do understand your wish to respect your beloved father's memory, Miss Bennet. However, I had those fabrics chosen for a reason. As you will soon be a member of the Darcy family, there are certain things that are expected of you. The image of my family is very important to me. I mean no offense in this, but as I am sure you are aware, the quality of material in your dresses compared to my sister or even your sister Jane now are quite different. You need not reduce yourself to simple and plain muslin gowns any longer. The material is already cut, so please have the dresses made. If you decide not to wear them for the time being then so be it. However, I insist that you also order new mourning gowns if you intend to continue to wear black after we are married."

"Mr. Darcy, all of my dresses, save one or two, have been dyed black. Including my ball gowns and finer dining clothes. I am sure that these fabrics will be sufficient until a proper time has passed."

"Miss. Bennet, I will once again stress how important the image my family is to me. I will not have my servants dressing better than my wife. Please order some black dresses made from silk or even a better muslin."

"What is the difference of fabric when it is still black? Mr. Darcy, I am not a vain person. I will continue to wear my gowns. It makes no difference to me what I wear. I am still grieving for my father. It should not matter what I wear. No one will think less of your precious image when they see your wife is following the rules of society. I am in mourning and in black. What else is important?"

"I will agree that the clothed need not be adorned of embellished in any way, however I would still like you to have a few dresses made. I will concede that you do not need an entire new wardrobe, but it would please me greatly if you agreed to a few new gowns."

"I suppose," stated Elizabeth, "that a few simple new ones will not be inappropriate. However, I will make this known Mr. Darcy. I am not allowing this 'to please you', as it were. I am simply too tired from all the bickering with my mother to continue on in this. Perhaps it is best. Can we not learn to compromise? I daresay we shall agree on very little once we are married."

"Very well. I can see there will be no more progress made. Three dresses then?" asked Mr. Darcy.

"Three." Said Elizabeth. Why on earth must this man be so insistent? Can he not see that I care not for what I look like? He must dress his servants up terribly well if he thinks they shall be better dressed that me. His sweet home of Pemberley must be as grand as Rosings Park with unlimited shows and displays of his wealth. Hateful man. I said I would have the dresses made, but I never said I would wear them. One win for Elizabeth, zero for Mr. Darcy.

"I will bid you adieu until dinner then, Miss. Bennet." Replied Mr. Darcy as he walked out the door. What woman in their right mind would care if she had countless new dresses made? I have said nothing against her wearing black even though it does nothing for her eyes. I have been more than generous. She is going to be a Darcy for heavens sake! She must at least dress the part even if she was not raised as a member of it's class. No, this is inexcusable. If she will not give way to wearing colorful gowns that will make her eyes sparkle, then she shall have more than three dresses made. I shall inform Georgiana to change the order to five, at least. And absolutely no muslin.

Elizabeth and Darcy were both quite pleased with themselves. Both believed themselves to be the victor of their debate. In this case, Elizabeth shall be named the champion. While Mr. Darcy can have countless dresses made, it is Elizabeth who will decide what she puts on for the day. It would greatly anger Mr. Darcy that she did not wear the gowns, but he is too much of a gentleman to make her change once she had been dressed for the day. So the score remains as Elizabeth said. One for Elizabeth, zero for Mr. Darcy. However, the scale may tip in Mr. Darcy's favor once Lizzy lays eyes on the beautiful and understated elegance of Pemberley. She just might be too occupied in all its glory to be focused enough for their next debate.

However, while both parties left the debate feeling smug they did gain something from the experience. That they, neither of them, were too unreasonable to find a middle ground. And so they left the experience with an air of triumph and optimism. Triumph of what they both believed to be individual wins. Optimism for Mr. Darcy that if he proved to Elizabeth he was not the haughty and unreasonable man she thought him to be, that her opinion of him might change for the better. And Elizabeth because she thought that, even though she hated this man with her entire being, she might be able to continue compromising so their soon-to-be coexistence would not be the hell on earth she believe it is going to be.

Chapter Two

Lizzy woke up with that same sinking feeling that so many brides wake up with. I am getting married today! Any freedoms I used to have are now gone. I am at the mercy of Mr. Darcy's kindness. Who knows how far that will extend? However, unlike nearly every other bride, when she tried to clear her thoughts her fears did not go away.

She had abandoned her promise of marrying for only the deepest of loves. She was doing what was right by her family. Her mother and three youngest sisters would be well provided for in the small, new estate Mr. Darcy had purchased. Mr. Darcy had secretly tried to obtain Longbourn, but Mr. Collins was not the least bit interested in selling it. Most likely he was too caught up in becoming the newest member of the landed gentry. However, Mr. Darcy had been able to acquire a quaint little estate that was reputed by Mrs. Bennet herself to have dreadful attics, Purvis Lodge. It provided the remaining Bennet family with a similar income to that of Longbourn. Mr. Darcy also employed for them a steward, a Mr. John Hughes. Darcy trusted Mt. Hughes implicitly as he had been an acquaintance for some time and his father was the steward for Darcy uncle, the Earl of Matlock.

It took a great deal of Elizabeth Bennet's infamous will power to get herself out of bed. She was still convinced she was in a dream. She looked at her arm. The bruise was still there. This was no mere dream it was a nightmare, or her nightmare, at least. The maid she shared with her sisters came into her chamber. Sarah and Hill and the other servants remained at Longbourn for the present but had every intention of switching to the new home once everything was arranged.

Emily, the maid, had Elizabeth bathed and ready to go within two hours. Lizzy was getting sicker by the moment. She was not ready to do this. She was twenty years old, and was willfully giving her whole life up for her family. There was nothing that could be done now, so she put all the negative thoughts out of her mind. She could rise to any challenge and this would be no different.

Her hair was done simply, she had insisted on it. Her dress was tasteful but still very pretty. There was not too much lace, satin, or silk, but still enough that even Mrs. Elton would have thought it fashionable. Lizzy was not ashamed he of her appearance in the mirror. A soft knock sounded at her door, a knock that could only belong to Jane. However, both Jane and Mrs. Gardiner came in.

"Oh Lizzy! You look simply stunning!" cried Mrs. Gardiner.

Jane stared at her sister and then smiled softly and said, "Truly, Lizzy, you do look very beautiful."

"I thank you both, but I – " whatever Lizzy was going to say, and she perhaps did not even know, was cut off by both Mrs. Gardiner and Jane.

"Lizzy, you do not have to do this. Charles and I are more than able to care for mother and the girls."

"And Lizzy, please your Uncle and I have made it clear you are no imposition at all."

Lizzy sighed and looked at her two dearest relations. "You are both the dearest people in the world to me. But Jane, you have just married. Settle in with Charles. And Aunt, you know that keeping four extra, three of them very frivolous women, is a financial burden. Mr. Darcy is fixing all of this. Jane, you have a chance to be truly happy with your Mr. Bingley. Please take that chance, for me. And Aunt, you must write to me. As often as you can. And visit me if we are in London."

Both Jane and Mrs. Gardiner stared at Lizzy. They were both sad for and proud of her. And both nodded in assent to Lizzy's requests. Mrs. Gardiner spoke up again.

"Lizzy that is not the only reason we are here. You may fear what you are doing today above all things, but both Jane and I, and your uncle and Mr. Bingley all genuinely like Mr. Darcy. It will take time, but we are ALL confident that there could not be two more perfectly matched individuals. And so that leads me to our next point. I know that your settlement with Mr. Darcy was for consummation within two years, but whenever that may happen, Jane and I will not be there to advise you."

"PLEASE, Aunt Gardiner, you cannot be serious! I would sooner die than have – well whatever is to be had with a man – with Mr. Darcy. I will hold to my agreement, but let me get past the vows first. I beg of you."

Jane saw the need for input and said "Lizzy, do not be alarmed. We know you are not ready. We are only here to tell you one thing about it that Mama will surely leave out if she ever decides to speak with you about this. I pray to God that she will not. Aunt?"

Mrs. Gardiner stepped in at Jane's growing embarrassment. "Lizzy, dear, we are only here to say that if you come to respect or even like Mr. Darcy. Marriage relations are not what is commonly said about them. They are a duty to your husband, yes, but they are not intolerable. In fact, they may even be so tempting as to catch your fancy once you begin them. So my dearest one, that is all we will say for the present. Now, let us get you to the church. There is a groom there waiting for you, whether you like it or not."

And so the party of the three women left in a carriage for the church. Mrs. Bennet had been there for hours making sure everything was in order. By the time Lizzy arrived the vicar sent up a prayer of thanks that Mrs. Bennet's ramblings were now directed at Lizzy's veil and "Why will it not sit straight?"

While Lizzy still was sickening as each moment passed, Darcy was getting almost giddy with anticipation. Within the hour, Elizabeth Bennet would be his. He could introduce her as Mrs. Darcy, his wife. The feeling of contentment that washed over him was enough to cloud all of the deep feelings of anxieties over her personal feelings towards him. He knew that she still didn't like him or perhaps even respect him. He had plans for this. He had spent many hours thinking of how he could win Elizabeth's favor, one might even call these thoughts conspiring. He would test her to get the most desirable response from her. If her passion was to be had through argument, then they would argue. If she succumbed to Shakespeare and roses, then so be it. He would be a perfect gentleman one moment and perhaps evil the next. Anything to spark her interest in him. He would not have her as she had been the last few days. She had been almost lifeless in the time nearest to the wedding. She greeted him, brought him tea with Mr. Bingley after supper, played the piano when he had requested it, but there had been none of the Lizzy Bennet spunk that had made him fall for her. As it neared ten o'clock he walked to the front of the church and stood by the altar.

Elizabeth walked in on her uncle's arm. She held so tight his strain was visible. She saw Darcy first. He saw her. At that moment each of their individual thoughts could not be more opposite. Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! Please let this be a dream. I have said that many times and it hasn't been but this is enough, already. Lizzy even went so far as to shut her eyes so tight she almost tripped on her dress.

Darcy's thoughts were much more pleasantly occupied although equally uneasy. He truly wished that if this were a dream that he never wake up. It was the best dream he could have possibly imagined. When he saw Elizabeth coming down the aisle he had to gasp for breath. She truly did look angelic. Since he was very well practiced in disguising his emotions he put on his "face" as Lizzy called it. However, he had no control over his eyes. Although Lizzy could not recognize it at this time, Mrs. Gardiner was very adept at seeing the pure and unadulterated love that shone through them.

And so the wedding began. Darcy was more than willing to answer in the affirmative when the vicar asked if he would "love her, comfort her, honor, and keep her in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all other, keep thee only unto her." Lizzy, on the other hand, was not so keen on her answers. Lizzy was not going to obey him, did not love him, and laughed inwardly at the thought of honoring him. The only vow she felt truly prepared to honor was forsaking all others. She had resigned herself to a lonely life, even if she was currently at her own wedding. She knew Darcy did not love her enough to stay true to her when there was no promise of relations for perhaps two years. He would take mistresses and she would be the proper wife. She thought children might be nice someday. That was the only reward that could possibly come out of this. So she said she would. She became Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy on a fine morning in mid July.

She unwillingly took Mr. Darcy's proffered arm and he led her out of the church. She had said her true goodbyes to Jane and her family the previous evening, as she knew she would be too emotional to handle it in the present moment. And she was. Any passersby would have thought her a happy bride, as there were multiple tears on her face and in her eyes. However, the tears were not of joy as they naturally should have been. There were of the saddest kind, of deep sorrow and dread. Other than marrying for the deepest and truest of loves she had only one other wish for her wedding. She wished to be given away by her father. This desire is commonplace for any young woman on her wedding day, and for Lizzy it was not granted. And so she wept. She wept for her father, for her choice of spouse, or lack of choice in this case, and for the realization that, as she stepped into the Darcy carriage, this was not a dream.

Darcy helped her in and stepped in behind her. With a knock on the door the carriage proceeded to move. The distance to Pemberley was far, but reachable within the time they left. The newly wed couple would be there before dusk. They traveled on in silence for many miles. There were some short remarks made on how each of them was faring and the weather but no true conversation. At four in the afternoon they reached Permberley's woods. Elizabeth was almost gawking out the window at the beauty of the nature surrounding the estate.

Mr. Darcy was thinking already of ways to test Elizabeth. He would gauge her reactions to him and use the most positive of her reactions to his advantage. Pemberley was a perfect place to start. And at the conclusion of this piece of interaction between our two characters the scales shall be balanced. It will not be an argument, but more of Elizabeth unknowingly warming to Mr. Darcy because of his home.

"Are you enjoying the view, Mrs. Darcy?"

Elizabeth visibly jumped at this question. Not only did it disrupt her viewing but also she was addressed as she had never been addressed before. Mrs. Darcy. She had always liked the name Darcy, but of course she never imagined herself a bearer of the name.

"Indeed, sir, the woods surrounding your estate are quite beautiful. I am all anticipation at seeing the manor very soon. How far is it?" asked Elizabeth.

"It is yet two miles or so, but I would remind you from this moment on it is our estate, Elizabeth. I wish you would learn to think of Pemberley as your home from now on. I know you shall like it very much. The house in London, too. Although, I consider my only true home to be Pemberley. You will soon understand why. Though I would not wish to impose on your thoughts of your beloved Longbourn."

"I thank you, Mr. Darcy. Indeed Longbourn shall always be my true home, but Pemberley will have to suffice." Elizabeth did not mean for this to be said coldly, but her fond memories of Longbourn and pure dislike of Mr. Collins added a certain bitter tone to her voice.

The next two miles continued in the silence that followed Lizzy's comment. She continued to stare out the window until she saw the house. She gasped so loud that Mr. Darcy chuckled out loud. Elizabeth noted that although the noise sounded unnatural to him, it was not unpleasant in the least to hear.

"May I ask of your initial thoughts, Mrs. Darcy?"

"I must agree with Miss. Bingley."

"I beg your pardon?"

"She said that Pemberley was the most beautiful house she had ever seen. And I find that I must, indeed, agree with her."

"That is a relief, indeed. I believe that that is the only instance that the words 'agree' and 'Miss. Bingley' could ever be properly used in a sentence together."
Lizzy smiled almost reflexively at this. And she could not agree more.

"Truly, sir, I believe that it perhaps the most happily situated house I have ever laid eyes upon. Nature could not have done more for a house. Would that the carriage would stop now so I could spend hours more gazing at it."

Darcy smiled also. "If that is truly your wish, we can. Dinner is not until seven anyway."

"I thank you for the option, but I believe I am just as eager to see the inside, too." Lizzy thought of her previous thoughts that Pemberley would be as ostentatious as Rosings. She silently took back all those thoughts because she could not believe that a house so naturally beautiful on the exterior could anything but equally beautiful on the interior. The carriage stopped and she nearly jumped out in anticipation. A happy looking, semi-plump woman in her late fifties to early sixties came almost bounding down the stairs.

"Mr. Darcy! Welcome home sir! Everything is exactly as you directed. And, oh! – please, sir, make the introduction now, I am so very excited."

Darcy was beaming as Mrs. Reynolds nearly keeled over in excitement at meeting Elizabeth.

"Of course, of course Mrs. Reynolds. Elizabeth, this is our housekeeper Mrs. Reynolds. Mrs. Reynolds, may I present to you, Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy, my wife."

"Oh! My dear I am so happy to finally meet you. It is high time this place had a mistress again! Welcome to Pemberley!"

Elizabeth could not help but return the same giddy smile the Mrs. Reynolds was so clearly giving her.

"I am also very pleased to meet you, Mrs. Reynolds."

"Oh! Come in you two. Welcome home!" Mrs. Reynolds then started directing the servants to unload which trunks where from the carriage.
And in that moment when Mrs. Reynolds directed her attention elsewhere, Mr. Darcy got in a final word before the excitement resumed.

"Yes, Mrs. Darcy. Welcome home."

Chapter Three

Darcy and Lizzy walked arm in arm into Pemberley. It was truly a sight to behold. The house was nothing like Lizzy had imagined. It's interior reflected perfectly the simple elegance of the exterior and grounds. Everything was very spacious but still felt comfortable and not overbearing. Even though Lizzy knew her marriage was not based on love, she knew in her heart that she already loved Pemberley. Unknowingly, of course, sharing Mr. Darcy's love of his home would bring her one step closer to loving him.

Everything was beautifully decorated. Art and sculptures were everywhere, but nothing was too crowded. If perfection could be reached in a home, it was Pemberley. Even though she had said the opposite to Mr. Darcy in the carriage she knew she would have absolutely no trouble calling Pemberley home. She was giddy with excitement at the very idea of exploring its halls and grounds. She never grew bored or tired of the woods around Longbourn, but they tended to get a bit tedious. Pemberley was the perfect antidote to the sorrow she felt for her father and her marriage.

Besides the physical being that Pemberley was she also knew she would love all of its inhabitants. Well, nearly all of them. Mrs. Reynolds could not be a kinder person. She was all that was amiable, loving, cheerful, and kind. A very mother-like figure, which was just what Elizabeth would soon need. All the servants were perfectly attentive even in the few moments she had been in their presence. The house seemed to be a paradisiacal oasis in the middle of beautiful Derbyshire.

They were barely five minutes inside when Darcy realized Georgiana had yet to make an appearance. It was very unlikely for her to not lose all self-control and come running out to meet him upon his arrival. And so he asked his housekeeper of her whereabouts.

"Mrs. Reynolds. Where is my sister?"

"Oh. Forgive me, sir, it escaped my mind amidst all the excitement. Miss. Darcy asked me to convey her best wishes upon your marriage. However, she wishes for you to have privacy so she will join you at breakfast."

Georgiana Darcy had yet to meet Elizabeth and was aching to know her. Darcy had felt it best to not overwhelm Elizabeth with even more things around the wedding so his sister had not been in attendance. She had retrieved the fabrics for her in London but had gone to Pemberley the next day. Darcy had told her many stories of Elizabeth and she already loved her. It was all that she could do to keep herself in her chambers until the morning. Her door was locked and she busied herself in studying French. She hated French with a passion and so she immersed herself in it to keep occupied.

"I have been desiring to meet your sister for some time now, Mr. Darcy. If you are not against it I would love to meet her now. I am sure she is longing to see you at any rate," said Elizabeth.

Mr. Darcy had secretly wished for this outcome and was thrilled to finally have the chance to introduce to two people he loved most in the world to each other. Upon hearing Lizzy's request he nearly ran up the stairs to retrieve her but decided to answer his wife first.

"She is equally desirous of your acquaintance, if not more so. Is that not true, Mrs. Reynolds?"

"Oh yes, sir! She would not like me for saying so. But, all week she has been giddy with excitement at your arrival, Mrs. Darcy. She has had everything cleaned three times, furniture rearranged, paintings hung, silver polished, and all her dresses cleaned so she would have her entire wardrobe to choose the outfit she would first greet you in. It has been a blessing to see her back to her old self again."

Lizzy was confused at the appellation of "old self" but said nothing on the matter at present. She responded only with sincere cordiality at the thought of her new sister-in-law so animated about her arrival.

"I am honored that Miss. Darcy took so much thought in everything for my arrival. It has made me only more anxious to meet her. Shall we go now, Mr. Darcy?"

"Of course. She will be angry she was not warned but I am sure she will recover upon meeting you," he smiled.

He offered her his arm and she had almost no choice but to accept it. They ascended the stairs and proceeded toward Georgiana's chambers. Darcy knocked lightly on the door.

"Brother, is that you?"

"Yes, Georgie. There is someone here I'd like to introduce you to."

Behind the door the Darcy couple heard a shuffling of papers, something drop, and a pair of feet frantically moving toward the door.

"It's locked, Georgiana. Why?" Darcy asked.

She fumbled to unlock it and it opened. The door revealed a pleasant young girl with a sunny disposition that was blushing ferociously.

"I wanted to keep all temptation at bay from coming down and disturbing you." She said blushing even more if it was at all possible.

Darcy laughed heartily as he pictured his sister in all her excitement. It was truly refreshing, as Mrs. Reynolds had said, to see his younger sister in this state after her dealings with Wickham. It immediately put his heart as ease knowing the mere thought of Elizabeth had helped his sister so much. He was greatly anticipating see the result of an introduction and a sisterly bond forming between the pair.

"Well, sister, I have brought temptation to you. Georgiana, may I present my new wife and your new sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy to you? And Elizabeth, may I present to you my sister, Miss. Georgiana Darcy?"

Upon the introduction Georgiana immediately fell into her quiet and shy nature. Darcy waited upon the outcome. It was, of course, Elizabeth who spoke first.

"I am so pleased to finally meet you. I am honored at the lengths you went to make sure my arrival was comfortable. And the fabrics you chose were perfect. The dresses are made and I am anxious to try them as soon as they arrive from London," Elizabeth's smile as she said this captivated Darcy into near stupidity.

"I am equally pleased to meet you too, Mrs. Darcy. I am so happy that my brother has found a woman he loves."

It was clear to Lizzy that Georgiana did was not aware of their arrangement. Elizabeth made a mental note to act the perfect couple in Georgiana's presence. She would not normally make this kind of sacrifice, as she felt it was, for so new an acquaintance. However, it was quite evident that the brother and sister before Lizzy were very close. It was also evident how much faith Georgiana had in her brother. Lizzy would not let so kind a girl down.

"You must call me Lizzy, it is what my other sisters call me."

"I should like to hear of your sisters. My brother has told me you are very close with them"

"Indeed I am. But, if you are willing I should like to have the same relationship with you. Your brother and everyone speaks so highly of you I see no reason why we should not be the greatest of friends. That is, I hope we will be."

"So do I. And you must call me Georgie, as my brother does."

"I am honored."

Darcy was thrilled at the interaction between his two girls, as he fondly referred to them in his mind. He would do everything in his power to keep it going.

"Well, Elizabeth, unless you need to freshen up perhaps Georgie would be kind enough to give you a preliminary tour of the house before supper."

Both women spoke at the same time with the same reply of "I should like to very much."

And it was settled. The women set off in the direction of the music room and Darcy set off in no direction. He remained behind them smiling at the sight of them. As they turned the corner he heard both of them laugh musically. He smiled and then descended the stairs.

Chapter Four

Posted on 2009-06-16

After the tour of some of the public rooms Georgiana lead Lizzy back to her brother's study. He asked Georgie to save the library and, of course, Lizzy's bedroom for him to show her. Georgiana knocked and was admitted, but left Lizzy to go in by herself.

Elizabeth walked in and took in the space. It was not what she had pictured in her mind for Mr. Darcy's study, but like the rest of Pemberley, it exceeded all of her expectations.

It was a large room with more bookshelves in it than Longbourn's library could ever hope to accommodate. The walls were natural in color that reflected the light just enough to give the room a warm glow no matter what the amount of light. The furniture was dark mahogany and beautifully crafted. His desk, larger than she had ever seen, was so finely carved it would take weeks to notice all the detail. She took note of the theme that was so very evident upon viewing the room. Horses. It was nothing overbearing to the beholder, but just enough to give the room added warmth. A few paintings were scattered of horses in the countryside, a few very expensive looking statuettes, and the carvings on his desk were all horses. She smiled at his clear display of his love and attachment to one of her least favorite animals. It was not that she did not think horses were beautiful creatures, but a traumatic childhood even had prevented her from being brave enough to remount one after the respective event. Thus, she walked and rambled about the countryside on foot and was perfectly content to do so.

"How did you like the rooms you saw, Elizabeth?" The words brought Elizabeth back to the present moment and she had to ask for them to be repeated. Mr. Darcy obliged her request and she answered him.

"I liked them very well, sir. Just as I said upon viewing the exterior of the house, Pemberley is very beautiful. I can understand why you are proud of it."

"I am exceedingly fond of it, but then again, I think that everyone is fond of their home. To you, I am sure, Pemberley will never even be a rival for you true love of Longbourn."

"If the rest of the house is as wonderful as the parts I have seen then it might be on its way as a contender."

"I am very glad to hear it. I am glad, at least, that it may help you in your misery in the future."
Elizabeth was surprised at his statement. She wondered what perils she must face on the morrow, as she would begin to learn her duties as Mistress of Pemberley.

"My misery, sir?"

"As I have stated before, I am well aware of your feelings for me. So it is my hope that Pemberley and Georgiana will be enough to sustain you until other diversions come to fruition."

"I am sure my responsibilities will consume much of my time. However, I am very happy with your sister. I am very much looking forward to spending time with her."

"I am glad to hear it as there is something I would like to discuss with you."

"Shall we sit?"

Darcy nodded his head in acquiescence and motioned to the chair opposite his desk.

"I want to thank you for not letting what I revealed to you in my letter cloud your feelings for my sister. I realize that I did not ask for your discretion on the matter but I am grateful you have not mentioned anything."

Until this moment Elizabeth had completely forgotten about the letter. So angry was she at Mr. Darcy's first disastrous proposal she was in no mood to honor him by reading it. She had not even thought of what she had done with it following the news of her father. She had absolutely no idea what Mr. Darcy was speaking of. She supposed it to be something to do with Georgiana and her being her "old self." She tried to formulate anything in her head that could've happened to the girl. Georgiana was the sweetest tempered person Elizabeth had ever met, save Jane. What could drive a person to hurt her? What is heartbreak? Or did highwaymen abduct her? Elizabeth threw all the fanciful notions formulating in her head out. She had tarried too long in creating a response for Mr. Darcy's comment. She could only remain remote on the topic that she knew absolutely nothing about.

"Georgiana is a sweet girl, Mr. Darcy. There is very little that could change my opinion of her."

"I would have to agree, even though she is my sister. I must ask you something further on the subject. As it is a recent occurrence I should like for her to not be distressed by the thought of it. I would ask that you not mention that I have told you of it or his name. Will you promise me this?"

"Of course. Mr. Darcy. I would not wish to ever knowingly hurt Georgiana."

"Thank you. I knew I could count on you in this matter. There is about an hour before dinner. Would you like to freshen up? Or I could show you the few remaining rooms and then you could?"

"I should like to see the rest of the house, if you would be kind enough to show me."

"Gladly, follow me Mrs. Darcy."

Elizabeth walked behind him out of the room and then was unknowingly attached to his arm as she closed the door behind her. She did not even see where his arm had come from, but it had stealthily placed her arm in the crook of his own. Elizabeth realized that she would have to become accustomed to this position as Mr. Darcy was evidently fond of it. He led her up a flight of grand stairs, wider than any she had seen at Rosings Park. As you all know from Mr. Collins, the staircases at Rosings are indeed a sight to see.

They came upon an imposing hallway with more doors than she could count.

"This is where most of the private rooms are. The master chambers are on this end as well as Georgiana's across the hall. Colonel Fitzwilliam is here often enough that he also has his own designated chamber. A more private and comfortable sitting room and music parlour are down the hall, as well as the library." Mr. Darcy heard Lizzy's intake of breath at the mention of the library.

"Should you like to see the library?"

"I will not try to hide my anticipation. If it is anything like Miss. Bingley said then I am sure I will be quite content to never leave the room."

"I am sure it will be to your liking. Though, do take a care to come out on occasion. As I would not be content to not see you everyday."

As subtle as this comment was Elizabeth felt the full weight of it. She blushed and Mr. Darcy was happy to see it. They arrived at the door and Mr. Darcy pushed it open.

Elizabeth gasped at the sight before her. Aside from the books the room was breathtaking, as everything seemed to be in Pemberley. The shelves were the same mahogany that Mr. Darcy's desk was and lined the walls and filled up most of the space. Chairs, couches, and chaises were scattered sporadically throughout the room. The room was large but nothing overwhelming. There were many ways in which the room could have been designed to make it over-crowded or cluttered. Yet it was another perfect room. The space between shelves was just enough and there was an open feeling to the entire space. Natural light shone through high windows and three fireplaces lined the walls that opposed the door. Lizzy stepped through the door and took the sight in. It felt perfect to be in there, like she belonged there. She could already see herself in the years to come being perfectly content among these books. Even though her marriage was not what she dreamt, she could only imagine what stories were buried among the shelves that would take her to new lives and places to distract her. It would be perfect bliss while in this room. She smiled at the thought and turned back to Mr. Darcy.

"I think I should leave because if I stay longer I may not come out for dinner."

Mr. Darcy laughed softly at this but noted the serious nature of her voice and ushered her to a room not five doors down. He revealed to her a large room that was very different from the rest. It was papered very pale lavender with light colored furniture that was accented by the light coming in from a large ceiling to floor window. It was still sunny, though the sun was lower in the sky as it neared the early evening. She saw the view from the window and nearly ran to it. The windows were actually French doors that opened to a spectacular view of the manor. Hills rolled for miles and sheep grazed peacefully. The green from the trees and grass was magnified tenfold from the light of the sun. She gazed out and nearly cried at the beauty of it.

"Well, Mrs Darcy, I shall leave you to yourself. A maid will come up in a few minutes to draw you a bath. I will come fetch in an hour for dinner. Does this meet with your satisfaction?"

It was two full minutes before Elizabeth came back to her senses and Mr. Darcy was gone. She went back in. There were a few more doors and she went to explore what lay behind them. One revealed a small sitting room with a desk and a few sofas.

Another was the room in which her daily toilette would take place. She went inside this room. A large vanity table with a large looking glass was the first thing she saw. Jars of pins and hair accessories lay out waiting to be used. A silver brush set with her new initials also was there. Many of her things were already unpacked and in place. It did feel like home, even though she was miles away from what had been her home for so many years. Another door inside of this room was to the longest closet she had ever laid eyes upon. A long pole hung with many of her familiar dresses, along with many new ones she supposed were the ones Georgiana had commissioned to be made. She decided to humor her new family and chose a deep purple dress with gold threads that gave it a very elegant finish. The neckline was a little lower than some of her other gowns and she supposed that had been Darcy's idea. She may as well try to please him, as she would be spending the rest of her life with a man she despised. She thought for a moment on how a man she could dislike so much could have such a wonderful home and sister. The universe had mysterious ways of doing things. The maid never showed to draw her a bath, so she used the water in the washbasin to rinse her face and neck. She was used to fixing her own hair on occasion so she pinned it up in a simple chignon at the nape of her neck.

There was one final door that she had yet to open. It was directly adjacent to the opening of her toilette room. She opened it to reveal a sight that made her gasp louder than she had thought possible; it was closer to a mortified and shocked scream. What lay in front of her was a half-clad Mr. Darcy just changing for dinner. He had on his breeches and boots but no shirt or cravat.

"I am so sorry, sir, I had no idea. The thought never – I did not think, that is to say I would never have known"

"It's quite alright Mrs. Darcy, I should have told you that our rooms connected at this point. Forgive me. I will see you in a moment for dinner."

Elizabeth blushed from her forehead to her toes in mortification. She had never even seen a man without his jacket on, let alone no shirt at all. She was stunned at the muscles in Mr. Darcy's defined chest and abdomen. His broad shoulders were a sight to be seen, but we shall save a detailed description of our handsome Mr. Darcy for a later point in time.

In a few minutes, as promised, a fully clothed Mr. Darcy rapped on Mrs. Darcy's door. He led her down to the dining room which had three place settings on it.

"I figured from your glowing report of Georgiana earlier that you would not mind her company this evening."

"Of course not, I am delighted that she is joining us."

"Good."

Georgiana came down a few minutes later and the first courses were served.

"Will you tell me about Longbourn and Meryton, Lizzy?"

"Of course. What should you like to hear?"

"What sort of village is it? Is it much like Lambton?"

"I have never been Lambton but it is much like any other English village in the country. A main street with a few shops, the bookshops being my favorites. A few bakeries, cobblers, inns, and dress shops. The people are pleasant folk and enjoy assemblies and balls. There was never much excitement as very few tourists or travelers ever venture into the town. Though this summer we did have a militia quartered there for the season. My younger sisters were taken with all the officers."

"My cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam is in the army. Although I suppose you already knew that. Were you in much contact with them, or were they training?"

"We dined and spent time with a select few. Colonel Forster and his wife were pleasant company. My family also befriended a few lieutenants. I believe you can claim an acquaintance with one, Georgie."

"Elizabeth- what?" Darcy looked severely angry.

"Well your brother does not look on him fondly, but Mr. Wickham said the two of you shared some joyous childhood memories together?"

"Mr. Wickham?"

"Yes, he was a particular favorite of my sister Lydia."

Elizabeth instantly noticed the paling of Georgiana's face and the tears well up in her eyes.

"Georgie, what on earth is the matter?" Elizabeth said before Darcy could even think of what to say or do.

"Lydia is your youngest sister is she not?"

"Yes, but why on earth- " It then hit Elizabeth what Mr. Wickham's name meant to Georgiana. She could do nothing when she realized how much she had hurt her new sister in a matter of seconds and there was nothing she could do to take it back.

"Brother, may I please be excused?"

"Of course, Georgie. I'll be up to speak with you soon."

Georgiana nodded quickly and nearly ran from the room. The silence she left in her wake was deafening to Elizabeth's ears. Mr. Darcy rose from the table stiffly and said nothing for nearly three minutes.

"Thank you Elizabeth. You ruined what was up until now the happiest day of my life. Goodnight."

He left her without another word or letting her say anything in her defense. Elizabeth remained at the table for some time. She could do nothing tonight. She found her way back to her chambers and sat on her bed. She had wounded Georgiana deeply after professing that she would not. She had never felt more alone. She was beyond tears or sorrow. The guilt she felt for everything was all consuming. She let it get the best of her as she stared the rest of the night into the fire that had been lit while she was at dinner. She could notice no warm glow from the fire. She found no comfort or rest the remainder of the night and did not break her glare until she noticed light coming though her windows. Today was going to be a long day.

Chapter Five

Elizabeth remained staring at the wall. Just as Darcy had said, yesterday was supposed to be the happiest day of her life. She had failed miserably on that account. Not only had she managed to marry a man she did not love, but also she had become estranged from her new family in the course of one evening. Not only was yesterday supposed to be wonderful, so was last night. She knew she would not have to face marital relations for possibly two years, but her aunt had said they could be enjoyable. Any outlook of hope on that front was now also gone.

She was in agony. Lonesome, hopeless, miserable, painful agony. Today was to be her first day as Mistress of Pemberley. She was legally married, but did not feel she deserved the title. Particularly, as the other two members that bore the name Darcy most likely despised her at the moment. She was alone. She was alone with no recollection of where she had put the letter. She had given Mr. Darcy the impression she knew who he was speaking of. He would speculate even more than he was at present if she went and told him she hadn't read it. It would likely not make any difference. At present, she could think of no explanation, reasonable or irrational, that would get her out of this predicament. She needed advice. A letter to Jane or her aunt would be too long. And yet, no one at Pemberley trusted her. She would have to lose any dignity she had remaining and solicit advice from the only source she could think of.

It was still very early and even Darcy was not out of bed. Although, no member of the Darcy family slept at all the previous night. Elizabeth put on a robe and shoes and made her way to the kitchen. Some sort of maid would have to be awake at this hour. She had not been shown the kitchens as of yet so had no idea if she was going in the right direction. She happened upon a maid and asked for the direction. She then stopped and asked the girl a question that would hopefully lead her where she desired.

"Could you tell me where I could find Mrs. Reynolds at this hour?"

"She'll be meeting with the butler and cook, ma'am. In the servants sitting room. I'll take you there if you like."

"I would be ever so grateful if you would."
Elizabeth followed the maid to the third floor on a far side of the house. For servant's wings they were very luxurious. Mr. Darcy clearly valued to dedicated service of his employees and sought to reward them in the small ways that he could. The maid knocked on the door and was admitted.

"Mrs. Darcy is here to see you, ma'am."

"Oh, my. Well, show her in then." Mrs. Reynolds had never expected this so was not as presentable as she wished to be on the first day of having a new mistress. "Mrs. Darcy, good morning. How can I be of service?"

"I am truly sorry to impose on you like this, Mrs. Reynolds. However, I must speak with you privately if you would not mind."

"Of course, madam. Shall I call for some breakfast to be brought up for you?"

Elizabeth already felt guilty at Mrs. Reynolds kindness. "No, I thank you. I am fine at present."

"Very well. We can remove ourselves to a more private area. Do you wish to go downstairs or remain here?"

"Here is fine, if you please."

Mrs. Reynolds led her to a more private area in her own chambers. She had a tidy little study to herself with two comfortable looking chintz armchairs.

"Mrs. Darcy, what can I do for you?"

"Well, I hope you can forgive me for how forward I am about to be. But, I must ask your advice on a very personal matter."

"Mrs. Darcy, I have been here for nearly 25 years. I know all the going-ons of this house and have a very good idea of why you are here. I am more than glad to help you in any way I can."

Elizabeth breathed an audible sigh of relief. Mrs. Reynolds had already proved true to Elizabeth's estimation of her. "Then you know how terribly I have erred."

"Mr. Darcy is a proud man. His parents were, and all of the Darcy's and Fitzwilliam's are. However, he is also a very reasonable man. He says he finds it hard to forgive others. But, when the offender is a person he loves, he always finds a way to forgive them."

"Not for this."

"I hope you will forgive me, but as much as I discourage gossip among the servants I was very surprised to hear what happened last night."

"I am not proud of what I said, and I have an explanation for it."

"You may tell me anything you like and I will have no judgment, I swear."

"Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds." Said Elizabeth and then proceeded to tell her all that had happened. She left out many parts of the arrangement as she felt it would be best to not reveal that Mr. Darcy had bargained for a bride. Though she told her of the first proposal and the letter. She did not include the parts with Charles and Jane. In the end, Mrs. Reynolds knew she had not read the letter, the letter was lost, she lied to Mr. Darcy about knowing of Mr. Wickham, and seriously hurt Georgiana.

"My, Mrs. Darcy. You have managed to get yourself into quite the pickle," said Mrs. Reynolds. Elizabeth laughed despite herself. "But let it not go unsaid that it is a pickle that can be gotten out of. It will require time, energy, and getting on Mr. Darcy's good sides."

"You think I can bribe him into forgiving me?"

"No, he will notice that. I am not speaking of cajoling, begging, or demeaning yourself to be forgiven. Though you might find it a bit humiliating and deceitful."

"You have an idea?"

"Yes. I can make no guarantee of its success. However, I have seen it done in similar situations and it had worked."

"And?"

"I think you should continue to lie. Mr. Darcy values honesty above all things."

"I beg your pardon."

"At the moment, other than your word, you have no way of proving you have not read the letter. You also gave the impression you did. Any attempt at saying otherwise will anger Mr. Darcy even further if he thinks you are trying to come up with an excuse. Although, we are trying to come up with an excuse. If I know Mr. Darcy, he will not want to hear anything from you today, or perhaps even a few days. His anger can last very long, I'm afraid. If he does confront you I believe that all you can say at present is that you have no excuse. At this point in time that is the only truth in this matter. You have misplaced the letter and so have no creditable excuse for the time being. I suggest you write to your family and ask if you left a letter behind. Say it was a letter he wrote you in your engagement that you misplaced, which is not far from the truth. All you can do in the mean time is please Mr. Darcy in any way you can. Do not disturb him if you can help it and make appearances at all meals. He will see you are trying, and will come to his senses sooner rather than later if he sees you are truly sorry. I have no doubt you are. Even in your ignorance I can see you feel awful."

"How could I not? Upon meeting Georgiana I instantly saw a strong sisterly bond. I had visions of us being good friends for many years to come. While I am away from my sister Jane and other family I saw her as being a comfort. Now it is all for naught." Tears had fallen softly from Lizzy's eyes as she said this. It made her long for Jane's comfort even more.

"Georgiana is another matter entirely. She believes everyone to be inherently good at heart. It has gotten her hurt, as you have heard. But she will forgive you instantly. I would even venture to say that she does not believe you have done anything wrong, which you have not knowingly done. You can speak to her right away. If the master sees she has forgiven you then he will be more swift in calming down."

"But he basically forbid me from speaking to her on the subject. I promised I would not. If he realized I had would that not anger him more?"

"It may, but I believe the outcome would benefit you more in the long run."

"I see."

Mrs. Reynolds could see the decision Elizabeth was trying to make. She smiled inwardly at the thought of it. She had hurt both the Darcy siblings and was now trying to choose loyalty. Although Lizzy had been hesitant to say her wedding vows, when she had summoned up the courage in doing so, she did with all seriousness. Although she did not love Darcy, she was going to follow through in her vows. So her loyalty to her husband was now legally binding. She felt the weight of that bind as well as an attachment she could not understand. The look of disgust and hurt on his face had nearly knocked the breath from her. If he were to learn she had betrayed him again in breaking her promise, she did not think she could bear seeing the look cross his face a second time. Conversely, she knew she needed Georgiana to understand the truth. She couldn't bear another night knowing both members of her new family despised her. So she would speak with Georgiana.

"Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds, for your advice. I believe it to be a good idea and shall try my best to succeed in every particular of it."

Elizabeth left and went to her chamber feeling a little better. She had the tiniest bit of hope in her, which would be enough to sustain her for a day or so. She went to her room and the sun was higher in the sky, an hour or two past dawn. She immediately set about writing letters to her mother and Jane. She knew not why Jane would know, but thought she might aid in the search.

An hour or two before speaking with the housekeeper Elizabeth had occasionally started at the sky from the window. She had seen the dawn but had not felt anything from it. Now, as she scribbled away wishing she would recover the letter this instant she felt something that should be felt from the sun's rise. Today was a new day. She could not make a fresh start as she wished, but she could pave her way to one.

Chapter 6

2009-06-30

Lizzy, relax, you can do this. The maid has done your hair, you are wearing a gown Georgiana chose. So far, so good. Perhaps he will take it as a sign of peace. Or perhaps not and perhaps he will be even angrier at the sight of me no matter what I am wearing. Let's just take this one step at a time. Nothing can be resolved until you try.

Lizzy neared the landing of the stairs. Her nerves were visibly getting the better of her. She was pale and her hands were trembling. She was hungry, too.
Perhaps I am too fatigued to deal with this now. I should go back and rest and eat. Yes, that is a better idea.

She turned around and went back up the stairs. As she neared the top she had another turn of thoughts.
Elizabeth, stop this! You are going to drive yourself crazy! You MUST go down and do something. What will they think if you don't show at breakfast? They will think you a coward. That will make matters worse, and at this point, anything is better than that.

Elizabeth poised herself as best as she could and made her way all the way down the stairs. She played with her hair a little, pushing some stray hairs behind her ears, and smoothed out her dress. She lingered in the hall a bit longer and then took a step forward into the breakfast room.

She looked in and no one was there. She realized that neither Darcy nor Georgiana had told her what time breakfast would be served. Did they eat in their rooms? She had forgot that the going-ons of this house would greatly differ from the chaotic mess that was the Bennet family. She had no idea if this even was the breakfast room. She had noticed it on the tour of the house and assumed that it was. It as a great deal smaller and more intimate than the dining room had been, and it seemed like it was in current use. She looked around and realized that there was another door. She opened it and there was a hallway. This must lead to the kitchens. She took the hall and came upon another door behind which there was a great deal of bustling noise.

Upon entrance to the room behind the door she found herself in the kitchen. The instant that the cooks and servants in the kitchen laid eyes on her all movement stopped.

"Please forgive my intrusion, I realized that I was never informed what the eating ritual for breakfast is."

"It is customary in many households for the family to eat in the breakfast room, is it not Mrs. Darcy?"

The person who had answered her query was the last voice she had expected to hear from. It was a voice she knew well, though she had only grown accustomed to its icy and angry version the previous evening. This tone was no different from the one he had spoken in last night, which made her even more anxious. She turned around to see a face she had not seen before upon his countenance. It was completely indifferent and almost vacant. Apparently he had the ability to be absolutely fuming while maintaining an expression that was nearly emotionless. It would have impressed her had not all the emotion and emotionless thoughts and glares directed at her. He continued in his thoughts before Elizabeth could answer.

"I know you were not aware of our breakfasting habits, Mrs. Darcy, however in the future I would appreciate it if you would not disrupt the entire morning routine of nearly all the servants of Pemberley."

As they were still in the doorway all of the servants and cooks had just heard what Mr. Darcy had said to his new wife. If they were taken aback, as Lizzy was, they made no show of it. They, all the servants in Pemberley, knew of Mr. Darcy's demand of discretion and so none made any physical reaction to his statements, even if internally they were all surprised. It would, of course, be gossiped about relentlessly after the Master and Mistress left the area.

Mr. Darcy knew what he said was irrational and even on the border of cruel. However, he was still so very angry he did not lament it for very long. He did, however, feel it keenly upon hearing and seeing Elizabeth try to answer.

She had expected no warm greeting from her husband, but had never expected the answer she had received from him. As he said it, she felt the anguish she had felt last night return to her body in full swing. It also caused her to blush at be spoken to like that, especially in front of, as he said, nearly all the servants in Pemberley. He had emphasized "all." Was it possible he knew of her meeting with Mrs. Reynolds? She stammered whatever reply she could find the courage to get out.

"Forgive me, sir. I had no idea of where to find another servant to ask. I will not disrupt them again. I am sorry, Mr. Darcy, so very sorry."
Darcy realized the double meaning of this apology but said nothing. He softened a little and replied a bit more civilly.

"Well, Mrs. Darcy, let us eat then."

She followed behind him and he sat down first. He motioned for the seat on his right, as he was sitting at the head of the table. Almost magically servants appeared and brought in an entire table-full of items: coffee, tea, juices, toast, jams, eggs, meats, fruit, cheese, and desserts.

She let Darcy help himself first, as she was not sure what to eat yet. She was famished but her stomach felt as if it would hold no food. The silence in the room was filled with tension. She said nothing in fear of getting a response like the earlier one. However, she had no idea what the day or he had in store for her. She ventured what she thought would be a very safe topic.

"It seems to be a very fine day out."

"To some, perhaps."

She silenced again for some time. She could tell the meal was coming to an end. However, a butler came in brought in a tray full of mail and the Times. He gave Mr. Darcy the tray and he fumbled through it looking at the letters.

"There seems to be one from your sister already." He pushed the letter over to her and she looked at it. She was so excited to hear from Jane she nearly ripped it open. However, the handwriting caught her eye. It was not Jane's writing at all. It was penmanship she had never seen before. The return address simply said "Netherfield Hall."

She opened it not knowing what to expect.

Dear Elizabeth,
I beg you not to react very much as you read this. Everything must be done in complete secrecy. My brother would be furious beyond reasoning if he finds out I wrote this to you, especially forging it from your sister, which I am dreadfully sorry about. I hope you will excuse me for it, but I could think of no other way to get in touch with you. My brother does not want us to communicate, as you will soon find out. I will be leaving for London in two days to continue my studies with Mrs. Annesley. Mrs. Reynolds will be working in concert with us if you agree to it. My brother has scheduled you to meet with her after breakfast. I will be waiting for you in her study at 9:30 if you will kindly meet me there. I know you were ignorant of Mr. Wickham's true character and so I hold you in no blame. If you do not wish to meet I will understand. I do not wish to anger my brother further, but I believe we will be in complete secrecy. He has an appointment at the same time with his steward and so there will be no chance of crossing paths. I beg you to dispose of this letter by the most destructive means possible.
Your sister.

Elizabeth was sure no matter how hard she tried to keep her face free of it, the surprise was clearly written on her face. She then blushed at the thought of how clever and deceiving Georgiana could be. She was sure that Mr. Darcy hardly thought his sister capable of thinking of defiance, let alone forging a letter from Jane and arranging a secret meeting right under his nose. Elizabeth laughed aloud and it clearly annoyed Darcy. She then shuddered to think of his anger if he ever were to find out. However, Georgiana had thought of almost every particular and even had Mrs. Reynolds working with them. Almost as if on cue Mr. Darcy disrupted her thoughts and said

"I have arranged a meeting for you and Mrs. Reynolds this morning. Have you any objection?"

Elizabeth smiled as sweetly as she could and Darcy noticed Elizabeth's infamous gleam return to her beautiful eyes.

"No, sir, none at all. I look forward to learning how to run your household."

He was a little taken aback at her eagerness but said nothing of it.

"Very well, if you are finished then I will show you to her study."

Elizabeth stomach dropped at the thought of him opening the door only to find his sister there. Or was this a set-up to see if Elizabeth would openly defy him a second time? Nothing good could come of this whatever it was.

"Perhaps I could meet with her later?"

"Did you not just say you had no objections?"

"Yes, I did but – "

"Then you shall meet with her as planned." Darcy said this a little more firmly and coldly than he had wished. He was just not in the mood to start any more discussions with her at this moment.

"Very well, sir."

"Follow me then."

Lizzy followed Darcy up to the servants' wing. He walked her exactly where she had walked this morning. She wished she could have walked herself here, but she could not give away that she had spoken with Mrs. Reynolds. Perhaps he already knew as he had possibly hinted at before. She would take no chances, though. As they walked closer and closer she prayed silently that this was not a set-up or that Georgiana had no arrived yet of it wasn't. Darcy knocked on the door. Mrs. Reynolds appeared almost in an instant.

"Mr. Darcy!" she said a little too loudly, "how kind of you to show your wife. Are you not going to be late for your appointment?"

"Yes, I must be going. I will come fetch Mrs. Darcy in an hour or so."

"No need, sir. I will be going to meet with the cook so I shall deliver her to your study."

"Very well. Goodbye Mrs. Reynolds, Mrs. Darcy."

Mrs. Reynolds curtsied and Elizabeth did and said nothing. She was getting more confused by the moment and she had no idea why.

"Well, come in Mrs. Darcy. That was a close encounter, indeed. Miss. Darcy it is safe to come out."

Georgiana had apparently hidden in the closet the moment the knock had sounded. There was no doubting that it had been Mr. Darcy as he had a distinct hard and strong knock that always sounded three times. He was completely unaware that it was always the same and that Georgiana often used it to her advantage in situations such as this.

"Oh, Lizzy I am so glad you came! I am frightfully sorry for the letter. But as I said I could not think of any other way."

"It's quite alright, Georgie. I should be the one apologizing. I am terribly sorry. I had no idea – "

"I know, how could you have? I don't understand why William is so angry."

"I will explain that to you."

"Thank you. And then we shall work out a plan to get you two back to normal."

"Georgiana, it will not be easy. He is so very angry with me, and besides there is no normal. We were never, well everything has moved very quickly. So let us begin and at least see what we can accomplish."

I will ask you to be as patient as you can with me as I tell you this story. The wounds are still deep and it has been a relatively short time. So it will be difficult for me to tell."

"I shall try my utmost not to interrupt or react to strongly and apologize in advance if I do."

Georgiana began her tale. "George was like a brother to me growing up. He and Fitzwilliam were always together and never minded me tagging along. They were significantly older but loved me just the same. After they went away to school I didn't see either of them very often. Before you knew it both my parents were gone and my brother was my guardian, as well as Richard."

"Richard?"

"Colonel Fitzwilliam." Elizabeth nodded her understanding and Georgiana continued.

"George and Fitzwilliam had come back for a few holidays and in the summer and it was always fun when they did. George went to my mother's funeral and came back for my father's but left abruptly the day before. I do no know what words passed between my brother and him but he went away straight away. He said goodbye to me and it was the first time I had seen him for two years. I noticed he was very handsome. He commented on my figure but I only blushed and smiled. Then Mrs. Younge came to live with us. She seemed very kind and we had great times together. My brother planned a wonderful trip for us to Ramsgate. I had never seen the sea before and it was the most excited I had been about anything since my father died. We got there and had marvelous times. Then George was there, coincidentally. Well, not really a coincidence but he appeared nonetheless. We became as we were when I was little. He took me walking by the shore, to tea, and even a local assembly although I never told my brother that, as I am still not out. It was a whirlwind of a weekend. I felt things that I had not known to be possible. I was seeing myself as his wife, not as an almost sister. I was daydreaming of becoming Mrs. Georgiana Wickham and writing his name on everything. I even drew a miniature of him and carried it with me always. I was in love, or so I believed myself to be. Then he asked me to marry him. He said my brother and he had had a falling out and Fitzwilliam would not consent to the marriage. And so I was torn. I wanted so desperately to be swept up in love and married. I had fantasized about it all the time when I was younger. They were all fanciful childhood wishes but this seemed so real. So I agreed to it. I wanted to tell my brother so badly, to have him give me away at the wedding, but George was very adamant everything be done in secret. He made arrangements for us to go to Gretna Green. We were set to leave the very next morning. Then Fitzwilliam showed up two days early. For all the love I thought I had for George, upon seeing my brother I had to tell him all."

Georgiana stopped here and took a few slow breaths. She gazed at Elizabeth's countenance to see tears forming in her eyes.

"You have no doubt to what occurred after that do you?"

"None at all. How could he? You were so young. I can't believe – he told me such a different tale."

Georgiana went very pale "He told you?"

"No, no Georgiana do not worry on that account. He told everyone in Meryton that your brother had not given him the living your father had bequeathed to him."

"He did offer it to him, but George had said he would rather have the monetary value of the living and so he gave it up."

"What did Wickham do after you told your brother?"

"He fled. My brother gave him a small sum of money to situate himself and it seems he bought a commission with it."

"You must have been heartbroken."

"I was, I still am sometimes. But mostly I am ashamed of myself. I let myself get so caught up in love it clouded all my judgment. Imagine how hurt my brother was when I told him I was going to deceive him. After all he and Richard have done for me. He says he was not angry with me only Wickham. But he gets so worked up about it I know I must have truly failed him. I am an inherently shy person to begin with, but after I returned home I was even more so. Fitzwilliam barely spoke to me for months. Only when he went to Netherfield did he start sending me letters of more than his daily routines."

"What was so different about these letters?"

"They were about you."

Elizabeth went a ghostly shade of white. She managed to croak out "He wrote about me?"

Upon being asked about this Georgiana seemed to go from one extreme of emotion to another. She almost lit up at being able to talk about her brother's happiness.

"Oh yes. He wrote about your love of walking and reading, that you were unlike any other woman of the ton. He wrote you loved to debate and outwit Miss. Bingley, which I am very happy for. He always wrote about how you were so different than the rest of your family, except one of your sisters, Mrs. Bingley."

Lizzy was growing a little anxious as she heard this account. "Did he elaborate how I was different than my family?"

"Well, not too much. He said they were a little different but you loved them just the same. That's one of the main reasons he fell in love with you."

Elizabeth was more than surprised to hear this detail. He had so meanly insulted her about her family before she was surprised to hear they were one of the bases by he fell in love with her.

"I still do not understand why my brother is so angry."

"I will explain that now," said Elizabeth. She did not know how much Mr. Darcy had told Georgiana about the circumstances of his second proposal. So she told her of the letter after the first proposal and that she did not read it. Georgiana's bias opinion of her brother made her a little miffed that Elizabeth did not read the letter but she said nothing on the matter. So at the end of both their narratives each understood the other a little better.

A knock sounded at the door and startled both of them. Mrs. Reynolds came in and curtsied briefly. "I am afraid the hour has passed."

"More quickly that I would have hoped. I leave tomorrow morning for London. How shall I stay in contact from you?"

"Continue writing from any of my sisters. I know their handwriting and shall recognize yours. Be sure not to use any of the couriers from your house in London, as none of my other sisters would be able to."

"Goodbye, Lizzy. I shall write with furthers plans."

"Goodbye Georgie. And thank you. I have only known you one day and already feel as though you have been my sister all my life. I appreciate all that you have done, but please do not risk your relationship with your brother any further than you feel comfortable. I know you cannot be happy defying him a second time."

"With Wickham, in the end, I knew my brother was right. We have all been deceived a little this time. We are all in the wrong and only the two of us know it. We shall make my brother and your husband see rightly."

Elizabeth was touched at the girl's confidence and her willingness to help. They kissed each other's cheek and departed. Georgiana nearly ran to her room to meet Mrs. Annesley and Elizabeth followed Mrs. Reynolds down the stairs to Darcy's study. She had no idea what to expect from this meeting. Mrs. Reynolds knocked on the door and they were admitted. The housekeeper curtsied and closed the door as soon as Elizabeth walked in. Darcy motioned for her to it opposite him at his desk.

"I trust your meeting went well?" Darcy asked.

"Very productive, sir."

"Good. I have asked you here because we must go over some paperwork now we are legally married. I have my will here and your finalized marriage settlements."

"I am sure they are all fine. Do I need to sign?"

"Yes, but I should like to go over them in any case. So you are aware of them if something should ever happen to me. They will always been in the top drawer of my desk. It is locked but the key Mrs. Reynolds gave you."

"Mrs. Reynolds must have forgotten to give it to me."

"Hmm. That is indeed frustrating after I reminded her so many times. You will have it soon enough. It is the master key to many things in this house. It will open the main gate of Pemberley, my desk, your desk, any door inside the house, and the vaults of Pemberley."

A knock interrupted them and a Mr. Williams was announced. Mr. Darcy caught the servant before she could leave and asked her to fetch Mrs. Reynolds.

"Good day Williams, may I present my wife. Mrs. Darcy this is Mr. Williams, my solicitor."

Mr. Williams bowed and Elizabeth curtsied in return. Both acknowledged their pleasure in being introduced. Mrs. Reynolds knocked on the door directly afterward and was admitted also.

"Mrs. Reynolds, do you happen to have the key on you or would you be so kind enough to go fetch it?" Mr. Darcy asked.

"Goodness, forgive me sir. I completely forgot. Here it is." She produced it, was thanked, and left directly.

"Mr. Williams I trust you have everything in order?"

"Yes, Mr. Darcy. Here they are." He produced a pile of papers and handed them to Mr. Darcy.

"Thank you Williams. I shall review them with my wife and then call you again A servant shall take you to the kitchens to get some lunch."

"Thank you Mr. Darcy. Good afternoon Mrs. Darcy." Mr. Williams took his leave and left the pair of Darcy's in silence.

Mr. Darcy shuffled through the papers and began to pile them up in some sort of order.

"Please read over these, Elizabeth, and if you have any questions or concerns with them feel free to address them. These will be legally binding the moment you sign them so review them carefully and add or take away anything you wish." Darcy handed her the first of the pile of documents. "This is our finalized marriage settlement. It will allocate any dowries for any children we have, your monthly pin money, and your settlement upon my possible early death."

"Mr. Darcy, please these are not necessary, I am sure anything you have decided is more than reasonable and fair. I have no fear in your judgment on this matter."

"Mrs. Darcy please read the papers and sign them if you wish."

She could tell he would not budge in this matter and so read the more than generous settlement. Her pin money was more in one month than she expected she could spend in three years. Nevertheless, she signed the document. He pushed another toward her and said "This is the deed for Pemberley and Darcy House, it will give you complete ownership if we produce no heir and I pass away."

"Should it not go to your sister, sir?"

"I trust you to always make it available to be her home, but it will not go to her. If she produces a male heir, it will go to him on your death."

"Mr. Darcy I will not sign this. I will sign a co-ownership with Georgiana but I will not take away what should be legally hers if there is no male heir."
"Very well. This is my will. It leaves all assets and financial control to you. Some heirlooms are specifically for Georgiana but the remainder shall be in your name and any children."

"Mr. Darcy? I have the same concerns as the previous document."

"I will not waiver in this instance. Sign it."
Elizabeth did as he bid and then he handed her a final paper. "This is the house deed to Purvis Lodge. You are the legal owner and your mother and sisters will be your legal tenants as long as they live there. Should they ever vacate then it is yours to do with as you will."

"Mr. Darcy you have proven to be very generous on all accounts and I will be forever grateful to you for that. However, in this matter I, too, shall not change in my opinion. You purchased Purvis Lodge and so it shall be yours. I am eternally indebted to you for helping my family and so the control to continue to help them will always be in your power. I trust any and all of your judgment on this matter."

"The deed has already been changed."

"Then I respectfully ask you to change it once more. I insist."

"Very well, that is all then."

"Very Well, then."

There was a very awkward silence that followed. There had been a growing tension as she read all the documents, as her sense of guilt grew with each word as well as her sense of dread. As much as she despised the Mr. Darcy from Meryton, the one she had married yesterday had proved to be quite charming before all of the misunderstandings had occurred. The quiet indifference that he now showed her was almost unbearable. She was now quite sure he no longer loved her. They were now what she had feared all along. A couple that married for convenience, with absolutely no affection on any side of the marriage. She also felt undeserving of all the trust and financial control Darcy had put in her. She was unsure of what to do in the following moments. Their business concluded but she had no idea what she was expected to do for the rest of the day, let alone the rest of her life.

"Sir, pardon me, but what shall I do for the remainder of the afternoon. Mrs. Reynolds was not very clear on how long business would take."

"I shall call her to continue to show you the ropes of being Mistress. I will have business through lunch but will be at dinner, this evening."
Mrs. Reynolds was called for and showed Elizabeth her study, the household ledgers, introduced her to the cook, and showed her all that was expected of the Mistress of Pemberley.
Had Georgiana not told Elizabeth that she was gong to London on the morrow Elizabeth would have had no idea. In their daily passing at breakfast and other meals Darcy never mentioned a word of his sister. Lizzy felt is was just as prudent that she not say anything until she heard from Georgiana. However, that proved to be quite a problem. Georgiana had been gone a week and Lizzy had heard nothing from her. She grew quite anxious as nothing developed. However, Darcy's indifference and emotionless demeanor tugged at her even more. She felt complete guilt, as she knew she was the cause of his unhappiness. It made her uneasy how emotional she had become in his absence of emotion. It was, of course, still all a misunderstanding but she should do nothing about anything. So another week passed and she heard nothing from her sister in London. She had received replies from her other family, sadly saying there was no trace of a letter to be found. So two weeks had passed since the unfortunate event, and it seemed as though this would be her lifestyle for the remainder of her life. The only comfort Elizabeth could take was from Pemberley itself.

Thankfully, Mr. Darcy had not been opposed to her exploring the gardens and walkways nearest to Pemberley, though he had restricted her from the woods. She was happy to comply as there were many trails and the gardens were lovely. So life continued on in an indifferent manner and very little progress was made. However, it should be noted that no progress was made on the account of the Wickham predicament, but it should be said that progress was made in other areas. As each day passed that Elizabeth was amongst the flowers and woods of Pemberley she grew more attached to it than her primary impressions had shown. With her love of the home a subconscious attachment grew to all of the members of the household, including the Master. It was not yet love or even affection. However, Lizzy did admit to herself that she was happier when she was in the same room as Darcy than she was when he was away on business for the day. This attachment would soon shown and things will soon be set in motion. Georgiana had been trying to think of anything that she could do for Lizzy but was completely stumped. She realized that if she could think of nothing very soon that the truth would have to suffice. There would be anger and hurt, but the truth will always prevail in any scenario.

A letter was sent from "Netherfield Hall" explaining the absence of letters and would soon arrive in the hands of a very anxious Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy.